The English language is filled with idioms and phrases that can be confusing to those who are not native speakers. One such phrase is “as (something) as they come.” This phrase is often used to describe someone or something that is the epitome of a particular quality or characteristic. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origins of this phrase, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The phrase “as (something) as they come” is used to describe someone or something that is the purest or most extreme example of a particular quality or characteristic. For example, if someone is described as “as honest as they come,” it means that they are completely honest and there is no one more honest than them.
Origin
The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it is likely that it has been in use for several centuries. It is a common idiom in English and has been used in literature and popular culture for many years.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The phrase “as (something) as they come” is not a commonly defined phrase in dictionaries. However, it is often included in idiomatic expressions sections of dictionaries. The meaning of the phrase is generally the same across all dictionaries.
Associations
The phrase “as (something) as they come” is often associated with a sense of finality or completeness. It is used to describe someone or something that is the ultimate example of a particular quality or characteristic.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for the phrase “as (something) as they come” include:
- Pure.
- Genuine.
- Authentic.
- Unadulterated.
- Unmatched.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for the phrase “as (something) as they come” include:
- Impure.
- Fake.
- Inauthentic.
- Adulterated.
- Matched.
The same root words
The phrase “as (something) as they come” does not have any specific root words. However, it is likely that the phrase evolved from similar idiomatic expressions that have been used in English for many years.
Example Sentences
- “He’s as honest as they come. You can trust him completely.”
- “This is the purest water you’ll ever taste. It’s as clean as they come.”
- “She’s the most talented musician I’ve ever heard. She’s as skilled as they come.”
The phrase “as (something) as they come” is a common idiom in English that is used to describe someone or something that is the ultimate example of a particular quality or characteristic. While it is not a commonly defined phrase in dictionaries, its meaning is generally the same across all sources. The phrase is associated with a sense of finality or completeness and is often used to describe someone or something that is the purest or most extreme example of a particular quality or characteristic.